Facial Moisturizer| Top Four(4) In The Market

Whatever you choose for your facial routine, a moisturizer is a must have to get winning results in your routine. While your cleanser will remove the dead skin cells, dirt and microorganism from your face, the moisturizer will lock in water by either interfering and preventing it from escaping from the outer layer of your skin (occlusive moisturizers) or drawing water from the inner layer toward the innermost layer of your skin (humectant moisturizers).

In this article, I’m going to show you what you need to know about facial moisturizers and also guide you towards making the right choice among the numerous brand in the market.

 

What Are Facial Moisturizers?

Facial moisturizers are creams or emollient used to help restore or retain moisture on the face. They are cosmetic preparation used for protecting and hydrating the face. Applying a moisturizer to your face allows it to fluff up the skin and to help reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Face moisturizer also protects the skin on your face from the various effects of the weather like heat and wind. They can enhance the functioning of the uppermost layer of skin which is made up of fat, oil, and skin cells; that help to keep moisture in the skin.

The top layer of the skin is also made up of dead skin cells and has a layer beneath the skin that stores water. When your skin isn’t holding enough water, it will look and feel drier and will need a moisturizer as an external help to keep your skin hydrated. .Apart from increasing the moisture level and preventing the skin from drying out, a moisturizer that contains a sunscreen, also protect against sun damage.

What Is In A Facial Moisturizer?

To be sure that you are adding the right thing to your skin, you need to understand what the facial moisturizer is supposed to contain. The basic ingredients a facial moisturizer is made up of includes:

1. Water:

Water is a colourless and odourless substance used in many skin care products. It is a compound of two elements, hydrogen and oxygen. Water is very beneficial to healthy and glowing skin and as such, it is used as the main ingredient in moisturizers to provide nutrient-rich balanced hydration. This is absorbed by the skin and retained by other ingredients without leaving the skin sticky or greasy.

2. Occlusives:

Occlusives are a type of moisturizing agent that works by forming a protective coating on the surface of your skin. They are sometimes oily or waxy. Occlusive moisturizers contain ingredients that make a physical barrier on top of your skin that helps forestall trans-epidermal water. These ingredients feel thick and heavy after application. Examples of occlusive ingredients include mineral oil, lanolin, waxes and silicones. Occlusives principally block the evaporation of water from the moisturizer itself. They work to keep the skin glowing, retain wetness and cut back irritations. It is also ideal for dry skin.

3. Humectants:

A Humectant could be a substance that promotes retention of wetness. It is an absorbent substance used to keep things moist and can be absorbed quickly into the skin. They are ingredients found in moisturizers and cleansers that hydrate the skin by attracting or drawing water molecules or moisture and additionally deliver hydration and nutrients to the deeper layers. Humectant ingredients (can come from nature or synthetic) includes amino acids (urea), sugar alcohols (glycerol and sorbitol), honey, molasses, ovalbumin and yolk, aloe vera gel, ceramides, alpha group acids (lactic acid), glycerin, mucopolysaccharide etc. Humectants absorb water from the air and hold the wetness within the skin and additionally promote shedding of dead cells by breaking the macromolecule that holds the cells.

4. Emollients:

Emollient is an ingredient or any substance that softens the skin by speed evaporation of water. Emollients act as the grout, filling areas between dead skin cells, thus making a smooth and soft skin. Unlike different ingredients that facilitate to bring or retain moisture, an emollient is an ingredient that helps to repair the skin’s function, thereby keeping your skin soft and smooth.

Emollients are utilized in creams, gels, lotions and ointments and work to assist the skin feel comfortable and less restless. They fill within the areas between the cells and also the skin and also lubricate rough skin. Examples of emollients include butters, oils, lipids, fatty acids and ceramides. In simpler terms, an emollient is the skin’s space fillers that enable the lipids and oils to fill in all the cracks on the skin, helping disembarrass the surface of your skin and help to repair your skin’s barrier. It is great for normal, dry, and combination skin types

5. Soothing Agents:

Soothing suggests conveyance, relaxing, lulling, assuaging, modifying or sedative effect. These are primarily what soothing agents do. There are spread of ingredients that have properties ready to soothe irritated or stressed skin and additionally improve signs of sensitivity. They are added to moisturizers to prevent the skin from becoming irritated by different ingredients. Examples of soothing agents include aloe vera, calendula, colloidal oats, niacinamide, panthenol, bisabolol and liquorice. All skin types can comfortably use this.

6. Fragrance:

The fragrance is basically the mixture of aroma compounds or oils. The fragrance is used in moisturizers to give it a pleasant smell and block the strong smell of other ingredients. However, it is advisable to use a fragrance-free moisturizer or a non-comedogenic moisturizer if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin to prevent irritation.

7. Preservatives:

Preservatives are man-made or natural additives or substances that are added to products such as food, drugs, cosmetics and other products to prevent spoilage or decomposition. They are antimicrobial ingredients added to product formulations to maintain the safety of the products by inhibiting the growth of and reducing the number of microbial contaminants. Preservatives are used in moisturizers to kill bacterial contamination after opening and help prevent contamination and the growth of harmful bacteria in products. Examples of preservatives used in moisturizers include parabens (like Germaben II, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben), Formaldehyde Releasers (like Germall Plus, DMDM Hydantoin, Imadozolidinyl Urea, Diazolidinyl Urea), Isothiazolinones (like Kathon), Phenoxyethanol (like Optiphen, Optiphen Plus) and Organic acids (Benzoic Acid/Sodium Benzoate, SorbicAcid/Potassium sorbate, Levulinic Acid, Anisic Acid).

8. Moisturizers may additionally contain vitamins, minerals, plant extracts like jojoba, almond or oil, sunscreen, and sunless tanners. A lot of specialised moisturizers may embrace ingredients like scleroprotein and exfoliants or more.

 

Why Should You Use A Facial Moisturizer?

I have heard this question a lot of times and I have also heard many people argue that moisturizers aren’t really compulsory in our facial care routine. The truth is, moisturizers are very important in any routine for many reasons are here are some reasons why you should use a facial moisturizer:

1. Prevent Dryness:

Dry skin could be a quite common skin condition characterised by an absence of the acceptable quantity of water within the most prime layer of the skin, which is the cuticle. Extreme xerotes will cause the skin to crack and manufacture fissures. Environmental factors like cold/hot weather, air-condition or indoor heat will cause dry skin on the face, However, this is where a decent moisturizer comes in. The main benefits of a moisturizer are to moisturize your skin to always feel comfortable and not dry, to boost hydration in your skin and to prevent flaking and dullness. Moist skin will also make your face look healthier and also create a protective layer of moisture that lasts all day.

2. Reducing The Appearance Of Wrinkles:

Regular moisturizing conjointly helps to nourish your skin and slow the signs of ageing. Being young is every woman’s dream and it is never too early or even late to start preventing future fine lines and wrinkles. Using a facial moisturizer will prevent tearing or brushing of the skin. Moisturizer will help your skin texture improve drastically, becoming firmer and smoother, leading to visibly younger-looking skin.

3. Protecting The Skin From Ultraviolet Rays:

Morning sunlight is required for the skin however, lightweight ultraviolet illumination(UV) that directly affects the skin for the rest of the day is harmful to its health. For this reason, it is important to use a 2-in-1 moisturizer that contains SPF. With this, there will be lesser inflammation, sunburn, redness and dryness. Instead, the skin will look dewy fresh and moisturised.

4. Prevents Skin Problems:

Moisturizing each day will reduce the prospect of developing extreme oiliness or dirt which can cause skin issues like acne and blackheads. Keeping your skin hydrated stops it from getting dry or making the glands produce a lot of oil that will clog your pores and cause breakouts.

5. Brightens And Smoothens The Face:

Regular moisturizing helps improve skin structure to make it more supple and smooth. Most moisturizing creams include formulas that can brighten and smoothen the skin. This is very beneficial to those with sensitive skin and that suffer from red, irritated, dry and fidgety patches. Find a moisturizer that has soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, oatmeal, and honey. The content of these vitamins and other nutrients can indeed make the skin more radiant and glowing.

6. Minimizing The Risks Of Certain Products In Your Makeup:

Before applying any makeup, it is important you begin with cleansing, doing this clears the skin and eliminate dead skin cells and debris build-up within the pores. Then you use your toner (if you have) before moisturizing the skin to soften it and prepare it for the products that will follow. This will form a protective barrier between the makeup products and your skin cells. Failing to moisturize your skin before applying makeup might cause an unblended makeup, irritation, and inflammation, thereby preventing your goal of a natural and beaming makeup look.

 

Things To Consider When Choosing The Best Face Moisturizer

Moisturizers perform an array of functions and can target skin issues like dryness, acne, blackheads, wrinkles, fine lines etc. Its importance cannot be underplayed and you really must choose the right one to suit your skin and needs to be sure you are treating your skin right. As a result of this, it’s important to consider these 3 factors when choosing a facial moisturizer for yourself:

• Skin type
• Type of facial moisturizer
• Ingredients used in the formulation of the facial moisturizer

1. Skin Type:

Knowing what kind of skin you have is the first step in determining what your skin needs and which moisturizer to pick. Moisturizers usually incorporate a combination of 3 specific kinds of ingredients: humectants, emollients, and/or occlusives. Some moisturizers may lean heavier towards one type of ingredient than the other. The use of a moisturizer is adjusted to the type of skin so it is important you’re choosing a moisturizer that works for your particular skin type. Here are the 3 main skin types and the kind of moisturizer that would better suit you:

– Oily Skin:

Oily skin is the overrun of sebum from fat glands that are situated below the skin surface. This skin type is characterised by enlarged pores, dull or shiny, thick complexion, blackheads, pimples, or other blemishes. If you don’t treat your oily skin properly, your pores will become clogged and enlarged and dead skin cells could accumulate. Contrary to fashionable belief, you shouldn’t overlook moisturizing if you have got oily and/or acne-prone skin. For this type of skin, you can get an easily absorbed, water-based moisturizer to hydrate your skin as it does not contain the additional oils. Also, if you are prone or liable to any skin disorder like acne, it is advisable to look for a non-comedogenic facial moisturizer that will not clog your pores at all.

– Dry Skin:

Dry skin is a condition that causes tiny, fine flakes, cracking, itching and dry patches as a result of deficient proteins and/or lipids that causes skin dehydration. When the skin becomes dry, it becomes additionally sensitive and liable to rashes and skin breakdown. Ointments, moisturizers and creams with ceramides, glycerin and carboxylic acid are going to be effective for dry skin because they are powerful moisturizers with a thick formula and a high concentration of active ingredients which will replenish the skin’s barrier to prevent moisture loss.

– Combination Skin:

Combination skin is having oily skin in some areas of your face and dry skin in other areas. The skin type is characterized by pores that look larger than normal, additional open blackheads and shiny skin. In treating combination skin you’ll have to create a balance, by using slightly completely different care in several areas.
For combination, it is advisable to use a moisturizer that combines an occlusive and water-absorbent substance on the dry areas and a non-comedogenic, oil-free and water-based moisturizer for oily greasy T-zones. Also, you will achieve better results with an additional lightweight and balanced formula.

2. Types Of Facial Moisturizers:

There are different kinds of facial moisturizers and your skin type is what will determine what sort of moisturizer will bring you the most benefits, and which one naturally won’t. Here are the most common types of facial moisturizer you will find out there:

– Creams:

A cream is a soluble medicative preparation applied to the skin that keeps moisture or water, within the outer layer of your skin. Creams are thicker than others and supply a barrier that keeps skin ultra-hydrated. Creams simply penetrate the skin to deliver key ingredients that lock moisture in. It does this by binding water to the skin and reducing evaporation thereby providing an incredible quantity of hydration and keeping the skin soft. Creams do feel greasier than most lotions due to their higher percentage of oil. As a result of this, creams would be best applied to dry and cracked skin cause it will facilitate in keeping it supple and moisturized.

– Lotions:

A lotion is a liquid or formulation that is accustomed to clean, improve, or shield the skin. It is the preparation or formulation of water and droplets of oil which is light-weight. The distinction between lotion and cream is that lotions have higher or better water content and are non-greasy. Lotions are typically moisturizers because they absorb easily and don’t make the skin greasy. Lotions would be best for those with oily, acne-prone and combination skin types.

– Gels:

Gel moisturizers are water-based lotions that are lightweight in texture and easily absorbed into the skin because they do not add any extra oil to the skin. Gel moisturizers hydrate and moisturize the skin. A number of them contain alcohol which can be a problem for sensitive skin. However, most gel formulas give oil-free hydration and are excellent for combination and oily skin types.

– Ointments:

An ointment is a topical medication that consists of medicative substances known as salve and pungent. They are soft oil-based preparation that is typically medicated and applied to the skin. Ointments are the densest and thickest types of moisturizers with a high content of oils. They work by penetrating into the skin’s lipid (fat) surface layer and preventing water loss. Ointments could be used as great moisturizers for extremely dry skin types.

– Moisturizers With SPF:

SPF stands for sun protection factor. SPF rating measures emollient protection from UVB rays and tells you how long you’ll be staying in the sun without getting burned while putting on sunscreen; compared with how long you’ll be able to stay in the sun before you burn without wearing the sunscreen SPF. The skin would normally burn after some minutes in the sun, as a result, it is important to use at least an SPF 15 sunscreen. This means that if it takes 1 minute for your unprotected skin to start turning red (in the sun), using an SPF 15 sunscreen will prevent reddening 15 times longer. When selecting a moisturizer, it is important to look for one with an SPF of a minimum of 15 so as to shield your skin from sun damage and premature wrinkles.

 

3. Ingredients In The Facial Moisturizer:

When choosing a facial moisturizer, it’s important to look at the ingredients mentioned to be sure they are safe for your skin and won’t cause you more harm than good. Look out for things that are going to be friendly with your own skin and avoid ingredients that are harsh and can cause your skin to react.

The Best 4 Face Moisturizers For Oily, Dry and Combination Skin

So now that you understand why you need a facial moisturizer, how to pick one and also known the type that’s best for your skin type; let me share with you the best facial moisturizers for dry, oily and combination skin. The moisturizers are tested and tested, have safe ingredients for your skin and are the best when it comes to giving your skin what it needs. Here are my best 4 picks:

1. ERAORGANICS Tea Tree Oil Face Moisturizer For Dry & Acne Prone Skin:

This Tea Tree oil facial moisturizer is developed to soothe, nourish and hydrate dry and acne-prone skin. It is an effective natural moisturizer that nourishes and dampens the bottom of your skin. It also fights acne-causing bacterium and Impurities, opens clogged pores, cleanses and minimizes pores, reduces redness and irritation, increases healthy blood flow and gives you a soft, balanced and smooth skin. This facial moisturizer is formulated with 7 powerful natural and organic ingredients including:

1. Tea Tree Oil:

Tea Tree oil is an ingredient used in many products for treating acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It helps cut back redness, irritation, swelling, and inflammation. It has natural anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties that help to prevent and reduce acne scars, leaving your skin smooth, clean and clear.

2. St. John’s Wort:

Wort refers to plants and herbs that are employed in medication. Saint John’s wort is also known as Hypericum perforatum. It is an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and astringes used in treating burns and scrapes by boosting blood flow to the affected area. It is used for the treatment of wounds, abrasions, burns, sunburns and inflammatory skin disorders and is applied topically. Best of all, it keeps the skin firm and smooth.

3. Pomegranate Seed Oil:

Pomegranate seed oil which is taken from the pomegranate fruit is an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial ingredients that helps in protecting the skin against cancer-causing actinic rays and sun damage. It is also an effective moisturizer that softens, heals and nourishes the skin. The pomegranate seed oil also regenerates and repairs skin, and effectively reduce and prevent wrinkles within the epidermis.

4. Burdock Root:

Burdock root is a plant extract that is used to treat skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema. The plant additionally has anti-inflammatory and medication properties from the root that can help resolve skin issue and increase blood flow to the skin. It also improves skin quality and texture by fighting signs of ageing and wrinkles.

5. Salicylic Acid:

Salicylic acid is an exfoliant that is effective in the treatment of various kinds of skin ailments which comes from dead skin build-up that embodies breakouts and clogged pores. It helps in treating eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, acne and warts. The salicylic acid works by softening the scleroprotein (a protein molecule in the skin) making it easier to get rid of dry outer layers that have built up on the skin over time. It is also oil-soluble, can easily penetrate the skin to break up oil and dead skin cells that often clog pores and create pimples.

6. Goldenseal:

Goldenseal is a fantastic multi-use antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory herb applied to the skin for rashes, acne, wound infections, itching, eczema, acne etc. It is used as a gargle for sore gums and mouth. It is also used in cleansing and healing open wounds.

7. Dandelion Root:

Dandelion root is a natural extract from the flower formulations infused in water or oil. It is used in lotions, creams, face mask formulations and ointment for shiny skin, ailments and acne. It reduces inflammation and gives a firm and even skin tone for a more youthful appearance.

 

Features of the tea tree oil facial moisturizer:

a. Proven to be effective:

Using tea tree oil for acne is a centuries-old natural remedy that still works till today. This tree tea oil face moisturizer is ideal for oily skin because it fights against blemishes, blackheads, cystic acne and redness, leaving your skin better toned, smoother and clearer.

b. Extra strength nourishing formula:

Most acne treatments are too harsh on the skin, resulting in irritation, redness or dry skin. This tea tree oil facial moisturizer is a gentle facial moisturizer developed to assuage, nourish and hydrate dry and acne-prone skin. It can be used by both adults and teens without any form of irritation.

c. Ingredients your skin can love:

This tea tree facial moisturizer is a formulation of powerful natural and organic ingredients like St. John’s Wort, Pomegranate Seed Oil, Salicylic Acid, Zinc, Burdock Root, Dandelion Root & Goldenseal that nourishes and balance the skin well.

d. Safe for the skin:

The facial moisturizer is non-comedogenic, cruelty-free and vegan friendly. This means it won’t cause irritation or inflammation to people who have sensitive skin. It’s also paraben-free, non-toxic, with no internal secretion disruptors, gentle and very effective.

2. CERAVE AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion With with SPF 30 For Oily Skin:

This CeraVe AM facial moisturizing lotion with sunscreen moisturizes the skin throughout the day and helps restore the protective skin barrier. It’s developed with broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for daily ultraviolet light protection and contains ceramides 1, 3 and 6-II, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. It is also an oil-free, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free and non-irritating formula. It is ideal for oily and sensitive skin and should be applied liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. And also reapplied at least every 2 hours.

 

Features of the CeraVe AM facial moisturizer:

a. Provides hydration all day:

The CeraVe facial moisturizer hydrates the skin throughout the day and helps restore the protective skin barrier

b. Essential ceramides:

Ceramides are fats naturally found within the skin’s outer layer. It makes up a major component of the skin structure by maintaining the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Lack of ceramides makes the skin more susceptible to environmental factors like dirt, pollution and other irritants. CeraVe facial moisturizer has three distinctive essential ceramides (1, 3, 6 II) that help restore and maintain its natural protective barrier.

c. Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Protection:

CeraVe facial moisturizer has microfine zinc oxide for broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection to help assist refill ceramides and deliver long-lasting moisturization.

d. Non-comedogenic:

CeraVe facial moisturizer will not clog your pores or cause irritation as it is lightweight and absorbs easily.

e. Top recommendations:

CeraVe facial moisturizer has been recommended by many people including the Skin Cancer Foundation as an effective, broad-spectrum lotion sunscreen. It is also for external use only because it helps to prevent sunburn, not skin cancer.

3. PAULA’S CHOICE Facial Gel Moisturizer with Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Combination Skin:

Paula’s choice skin balancing facial moisturizer is a light-weight gel moisturizer that helps in minimizing large pores, hydrate and refresh the skin. It is good for those with normal to combination or even oily skin. It also has anti-age-fighting antioxidants which leave the skin smooth and toned.

Features of Paula’s Choice gel facial moisturizer:

a. Ultralight moisturizer:

Paula’s choice skin balancing facial moisturizer is pore-reducing niacinamide, age-fighting antioxidant and skin-restoring formulation that provides hydration and protection from the sun.

b. Balances the skin:

This skin-balancing facial moisturizer has antioxidants like Vitamin C and niacinamide that refresh, rejuvenate and hydrate the skin. These ingredients help even out skin discolourations, minimize pores, and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving the skin glowing and young.

c. Day & Night Use:

The invisible finish facial gel moisturizer can be used twice daily as part of your morning and evening facial care routine. It can be used with other effective Paula product like Paula’s Choice cleanser, toner, serums, exfoliator, spot treatments, sunscreen, eye cream etc.

d. Great for sensitive skin too:

Paula’s Choice facial moisturizer has no fragrance, no parabens, no fluff. It has effective, science-backed formulas that concentrate on skin concern from wrinkles to breakouts and are great for sensitive skin.

4. BEAUTY BY EARTH Oil Control Face Moisturizer With Natural Ingredients:

Beauty by Earth is a facial moisturizer that is formulated with natural and organic ingredients like argan oil, aloe vera etc, that helps in oil control while hydrating and preventing skin ageing. It can be used day and night by all skin types including combination, oily and acne-prone skin type.

 

Features of Beauty By Earth facial moisturizer:

a. Best skincare ingredients:

Beauty by earth oil control facial moisturizer is formulated with 20 moisturizing age-defying vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and oil extracts that help smooth fine lines, control oil, increases collagen, reduce wrinkle, induce glow and leave your skin smooth and clear.

b. Water-based formula:

This oil control facial moisturizer has a water-based formula that hydrates and penetrates your skin without leaving an oily finish. It can be used as a potent acne cream to prevent future breakouts and also improve your skin tone by hydrating it.

c. It is lightweight and silky:

It is extremely lightweight, not sticky, not scented, does not clog pores, and goes a long way in protecting and hydrating your skin. This is because it combines vitamins, amino acids, and minerals to speed up skin renewal. It’s a perfect morning moisturizer while making a highly efficient, effective night cream for deep repair and hydration while you rest.

d. 100% Cruelty-free formula:

You can trust what you are putting on your face as this formula contains Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Argan Oil, and Organic Coconut oil to fight wrinkle-inducing free radicals. These oil and extracts contain large and small molecules that deeply penetrate the skin to immediately reveal a brighter, healthier complexion.

Trust me, with the above 4 facial moisturizers, you are sure to get the best out of each for your face to get that radiant and youthful look. Just be sure to pick the one that suits your skin type and needs.

Best Steps To Moisturize Your Face

It’s necessary for you to moisturize the right way to ensure that you are doing it right. Here are the best steps to moisturize your face:

1. The first step in moisturizing is by washing your face while taking your bath. Or alone whenever you aren’t going to have your bath.
2. After washing your face, pat it dry before applying using your cleanser to remove deep-seated dirt.
3. Next, use your toner (if you have one) to remove the leftover dirt and balance your skin’s pH.
4. Then get your favourite moisturizer and apply.
5. Ensure you apply moisturizer gently, using upward strokes. Never press or pull on your skin.
6. If you’re going to put on makeup, allow your face stay for some minutes to enable it to enter your skin properly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having healthy and glowing face doesn’t come down to your moisturizer alone, your whole skincare routine needs to be in order for you to see the amazing benefits. However, with a good moisturizer that suits your skin’s type and need, you are sure to make headway for a start.

So, have you tried any of the above? What was it like for you? Or is there anyone you are willing to ty now? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comment box below.

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